New Book Reveals More PA Trails for Horse Riders, Hikers, and Bikers to Explore

Tired of the same old trails? Want to bring excitement back into your trail riding? Hit The Trails Publications, LLC, has a suggestion-try a new trail. And they have just released the book to help you find that trail: "Ride Pennsylvania Horse Trails: Part II-The Western Half of Pennsylvania," Carolyn B. Cook's companion volume to "Ride Pennsylvania Horse Trails: Part I-The Eastern Half of Pennsylvania." This detailed and well-researched guide offers practical, first-hand information for over 40 equestrian and multiple-use trails throughout the western half of Pennsylvania. All trails featured are free and open to horseback riders. And though the main focus of the book is horse trails, the author provides trail info for mountain bikers, hikers, snowmobile enthusiasts, and cross-country skiers. In addition to the extensive trail information, Cook embellishes each chapter with local history and her encounters with wildlife and adverse weather

Cherryville, PA (PRWEB) February 25, 2005 -- While researching the book, Cook was surprised to learn how many virgin forests still exist in central and western Pennsylvania. Many destinations are filled with an abundance of wildlife, including beaver, bear, and Rocky Mountain Elk. She noted that, "Many of these beautiful places are unknown to most riders and very much underused. They let you experience a wilderness that is getting harder to find today."

Cook's equestrian focus makes these books unique among camping and trail guides. She and her husband rode every trail featured in the book and camped at the campgrounds. Such first-hand experience will be appreciated by anyone who has ridden an unfamiliar trail or visited a new campground. The author, a life-long horse lover, understands the rewards of trail riding and horse camping, "It's a wonderful form of recreation. Families and friends share the pleasure of each other's company and the beauty of the outdoors. It's a great stress reliever. People who've never been out on these trails have no idea what they're missing!"

Equestrians have special considerations when riding trails or camping with horses. Consistent with "Ride Pennsylvania Horse Trails: Part I-The Eastern Half of Pennsylvania," this volume includes information on:

--Author's lasting impressions of the destination
--Location of the trails
--Length of the trails
--Terrain and trail description
--Detailed directions to the trailhead
--Camping facility availability (both equestrian and non-equestrian facilities)
--Recommendations for good hauling routes to the trails and campgrounds
--Contact information for obtaining maps and other information
--Other permitted uses, such as mountain biking, hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing
--Horse and carriage suitability
--Camping permits required
--Comfort station availability
--Historical background and highlights
--Emergency vet and farrier contacts
--Nearby features and attractions

For trail riding enthusiasts without their own horse and trailer, Cook lists nearby stables, including those that offer trail rides.

"Ride Pennsylvania Horse Trails: Part II" retails for $23.95 and can be purchased directly from Hit The Trail Publications, LLC, via the website, or from select tack shops and bookstores listed on the website. For more information, photos, or to order, visit the publisher's website at http://www.patrail.com. Or write the publisher at Hit The Trail Publications, LLC, P.O. Box 970, Cherryville, PA 18035.

The author, Carolyn B. Cook, has explored trails on horseback for many years with John Spotts, her husband and constant trail companion. Her articles on trails and trail riding have appeared in "The Trail Rider Magazine" and other national and local publications. She promotes trail development and preservation though public speaking at promotional events and by her membership and involvement with Rails to Trails and the Pennsylvania Equine Council (PEC). Cook actively recruits volunteers in pursuit of maintaining and preserving trail destinations and has volunteered as a new trail scout for the Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry.

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